Fought #OnThisDay 23 Sept 1803 The Battle of Assaye.
Wellesley commanded 6,500 Indian & British troops against 40,000- 200,000 Mahratta troops led by Hanovarian mercenary Pohlmann

Asked what his greatest vistory was W replied ASSAYE, making it this week's #WellingtonWednesday

Under the fire of enemy cannon (which vastly outnumbered his own) Wellesley led a flanking manoeuvre across the river in plain sight whilst the remainder of his army fought in line.

The Mahratta army had been trained in European drills so also fought with muskets in line.

The flanking manoeuvre advanced directly towards the enemy guns, though cannister/grape shot.

As they charged with bayonet, Wellesley hit the Mahratta line with cavalry too, his line regiments were close to breaking, but stood firm.

The army advanced past the Mahratta guns, many crews of which had "played" dead and remanned their guns, causing casualties from the rear.

Eventually they were put down & the last pockets of Infantry fled.

Wellesley's army had 428 killed & 1,156 wounded for 6,000+ enemy.

Assaye would bring the eventual end to the Mahratta resistance.

Fought against overwhelming numbers, Wellesley had gone on the attack in a bold move.

It was widely celebrated, special honours given the 2 British Line Regiments & EIC units.

#OnThisDay
#WellingtonWednesday

The 74th Highland Regiment played an important part at #Assaye marching along the line and taking the brunt of the Mahratta volley fire.

They were awarded a 3rd "Assaye" Colour (addition to the King's & Regimental) today carried by 2 SCOTS.

#OnThisDay #WellingtonWednesday

Happy Assaye Day to @2_SCOTS
Fought #Onthisday 1803, Wellesley had only 3 British Regiments, 19th Light Dragoons, the 74th Highlanders and 78th Highlanders.

Such was their outstanding service that day, they were granted the Battle Honour "ASSAYE" & Gifted a 3rd Colour.